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Gynecology is the science of women. In medical
conditions, this is the specialty of diseases of the female
reproductive system (uterus, vagina and ovaries). It is a consultant
specialty. Women initially meet a general practitioner and if
there condition requires further treatment, they are referred
to a gynecologist. The two main tools of diagnosis are examination
and clinical history.
Types of investigations
- Vaginal ultra sound: Allows a good view of the uterus and its contents. It is used in early pregnancy
- Abdominal ultrasound : Views the pelvic organs
- Laparoscopy : It is commonly used to diagnose endometriosis
- Hysteroscopy : After a general anesthetic, a fine tube is passed into the uterus for examination
- Blood tests : To study the levels of hormones such as follicle and estradiol
- Pelvic x rays, MRI and CT scans are the other types of investigations
Be alert. Gynecological symptoms, which requires treatment
- Regular bleeding between periods
- Lumps in the genital areas
- Vaginal bleeding between or after intercourse
- A pain noticed in your pelvis which is different from menstrual cramps
- High vaginal discharge
- Swelling, itching, burning in the vaginal area
- Frequent need to urinate
If you experience any of these discomforts, it's wise to meet a gynecologist and know its cause.
Common diseases in gynecology
- Infertility
- Cancer of the cervix [ the Pap smear test diagnoses it]
- Incontinence of urine
- Amenorrhea [no periods]
- Menorrhagia [heavy periods]
- Dysmenorrhoea [ painful periods]
- Prolapse
Therapies
In order to stimulate ovulation gynecologists prescribe Clomiphene and oral contraceptives. Some surgeries that gynecologists generally conduct are:
- Hysterectomy [removal of the uterus]
- Pregnancy termination
- Colposuspension: [ligament tightening around the vagina]
- Dilation and curettage: [removal of the uterine contents]
- Large loop excision of the transition zone: [LLETZ], the precancerous cells identified during pap smear tests are removed
Gynecological conditions range in severity and frequency among women. All women need to undergo regular gynecological examinations. And so does women with disabilities. Other wise serious health problems will remain undetected and untreated. |
